CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (May 22, 2025) — The American Oil Chemists’ Society (AOCS) commends the MAHA Commission for its ambitious mission to drastically reduce chronic disease and eliminate childhood illness. Achieving these vital goals demands that policy be grounded in the highest standards of scientific evidence.
AOCS understands questions raised by the Commission regarding the role of oils and fats in relation to nutrition and public health outcomes. These issues are scientifically complex, and we recognize that the large—and sometimes conflicting—body of research on oils and fats can be challenging to interpret. Assessing potential health impacts requires a rigorous evaluation of the full body of evidence, including the strength, consistency, specificity, and biological plausibility of findings. This process demands deep, cross-disciplinary expertise spanning numerous areas including health and nutrition, lipid oxidation, analytical chemistry, and edible oils processing.
Fortunately, AOCS brings together experts who are actively engaged in advancing science and technology across all of these disciplines. Our Society also publishes four internationally recognized, peer-reviewed scientific journals—including Lipids and the Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society — alongside numerous technical books and validated laboratory methods that serve as trusted references around the world.
As a trusted, nonpartisan scientific organization, AOCS is committed to supporting the Commission’s efforts to reduce chronic disease by connecting the Administration with leading subject matter experts in lipid science and related fields. Our Society can assist in evaluating the breadth of available data to ensure that public health strategies are grounded in the best available, peer-reviewed science. We welcome the opportunity to be a partner in this important work and to contribute to a policy process rooted in scientific integrity, transparency, and collaboration.
Media Contact:
For media inquiries please contact Patrick Donnelly, PhD, Chief Executive Officer at patrick.donnelly@aocs.org.
About AOCS:
Founded in 1909, the American Oil Chemists’ Society (AOCS) advances the science and technology of oils, fats, proteins, surfactants, and related materials, enriching the lives of people everywhere. Through analytical methods, publications, and professional development, AOCS serves as a global leader in the field of lipid science.
AOCS Statement on the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission Report